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Morton & Gettys partner Elizabeth Smith Owen to join Riley Institute Diversity Leaders Initiative
Elizabeth Smith Owen, a partner with Morton & Gettys law firm, has been selected to participate in the 15th Midlands class of the Riley Institute’s Diversity Leaders Initiative.
The Riley Institute at Furman University, named for former governor Dick Riley, started the DLI in 2003. The more than 2,600 fellows who have participated in the program have included a wide array of business, governmental and community leaders committed to advancing social and economic progress in South Carolina.
The 41 leaders in the class were selected through a rigorous application and interview process after being nominated by Riley Institute DLI alumni. They are uniquely positioned to create impact within their organizations and communities. Each class is crafted to reflect the demographics of South Carolina.
Over five months, the class will engage in intensive discussions and scenario analyses that allow them to openly examine sensitive issues related to diversity and inclusion with fellow leaders, explore “blind spots,” and gain tools to develop strategies within their own organizations.
Elizabeth’s practice at Morton & Gettys focuses mainly on family law and education law. She is an experienced family lawyer, representing clients in issues such as divorce, child custody, child support, alimony and spousal support, visitation, adoption, gender confirmation, and prenuptial agreements.
Her education law practice includes counseling school districts on topics ranging from social media issues and legal compliance to general liability.
She has a passion for education and her community. She currently serves as the founding chairperson for the York School District One Education Foundation. She volunteers with numerous community youth and family-oriented organizations and has served in leadership roles on the boards for the Early Learning Partnership of York County and the York County Community Foundation. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the York County Natural Gas Authority, and is a Liberty Fellow.
She served as the part-time chief municipal judge for the City of York for five years, and is a past president of the York County Bar Association.
